A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Arlington for Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a secluded, undeveloped, and untouched island. With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Arlington

Arlington is a international, historical, and educational city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Arlington travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Arlington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Arlington than Cumberland Island National Seashore, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Arlington is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Arlington is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon. Also, Arlington is famous for Arlington National Cemetery. Cumberland Island National Seashore is well known for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Arlington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arlington and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

Arlington is a great city for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Arlington offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arlington. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Nightlife?

Arlington is a great city for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Arlington has something for everybody. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in the world. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Arlington is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

Arlington is a popular place for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arlington. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Arlington is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors from all around. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Arlington is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers lots of family activities. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Arlington is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cumberland Island National Seashore makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Arlington are very good places to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Arlington is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Students?

Arlington is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Arlington is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not popular with students.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arlington is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Arlington is top-notch. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

Public transit is generally limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington a more walkable city?

Arlington is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Arlington is very walkable. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable place. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Arlington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arlington or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

It's fun to spend time in either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Arlington due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Arlington.

Families should spend more time in Arlington than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Arlington, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arlington than Cumberland Island National Seashore if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Arlington.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

You'll find around the island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Arlington, you'll find nightlife and food. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

You'll find around the untouched destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Arlington for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the secluded island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arlington is a popular place to visit. The international city of Arlington offers shopping and museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arlington. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Arlington, we can see that Arlington is more expensive. And not only is Cumberland Island National Seashore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cumberland Island National Seashore and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Arlington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arlington than you might in Cumberland Island National Seashore.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Arlington Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Arlington. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Arlington in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally around the same temperature as Arlington. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 82°F (28°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arlington this time of the year. In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arlington during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

Cumberland Island National Seashore gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Arlington. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Arlington. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Arlington for the shopping scene during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Arlington in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Arlington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 197 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Arlington. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington in the Winter?

Both Arlington and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Arlington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Arlington can be very cold. In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Arlington. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Arlington averages at about 35°F (1°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Arlington during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Arlington receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Arlington. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Arlington in the Spring?

Both Arlington and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally a little warmer than Arlington. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 68°F (20°C), and Arlington fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Arlington. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arlington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Arlington. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Arlington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arlington and Cumberland Island National Seashore